The ASPCA believes that while effective shelter policies must strike a difficult balance between
appropriate discretion and necessary accountability, the primary responsibilities of animal shelters are to identify and pursue successful
placement options for the animals in their care, provide quality care to the animals sheltered and to fulfill the needs of pets and people in the community they serve.
It is also likely related to the choices of decision makers to not only make
placement options available but also to provide
appropriate services and supports in those environments.